Why this matters
The result of an investment relative to its value over a stated period and with a defined set of income and costs.
Example
An asset bought for 1,000 roubles, sold for 1,100 and paying 50 has a simple total-period return of 15% before costs; it is not automatically an annual rate.
Common mistake
Confusing return with cash income, risk or yield to maturity, or omitting the period and cash flows.